This diagnostic test can assist you in evaluating your current readiness for the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). Sample questions representing each section of the GMAT are included to help you to pinpoint areas of strength and weakness in your knowledge base and your skill set.

This chapter is from the book

This chapter is from the book

This diagnostic test can assist you in evaluating your current readiness for the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). Sample questions representing each section of the GMAT are included to help you to pinpoint areas of strength and weakness in your knowledge base and your skill set. Don’t worry if you are unable to answer many or most of the questions at this point. The rest of the book contains information and resources to help you to maximize your GMAT score.

We suggest that you make this diagnostic test as much like the real test as possible. Find a quiet location, free from distractions, and make sure that you have pencils and a timepiece.

The simulated GMAT in this chapter consists of 78 multiple-choice questions and 2 essay tasks, divided into 4 sections. Please allow approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete the diagnostic test. Each of the test sections should be taken in the time indicated at the beginning of the sections, and in the order in which they appear on this test.

here are several different types of questions within each section. Make sure that you read and understand all directions before you begin. To achieve the best results, time yourself strictly on each section.

You should answer each question before you move on to the next question to make this simulated test as much like the actual CAT test as possible. Remember to tear out the Answer Sheet included at the end of this chapter so that you can compare your answers to the correct answers listed on the Answer Key on page 44. Carefully review the explanations for any question that you answered incorrectly.

Remember, your score on the actual GMAT will depend on many factors, including your level of preparedness and your fatigue level on test day.

Section 1: Analysis of an Argument

Time: 30 minutes

1 question

Directions: This section asks you to analyze and critique an argument that is presented. This section does not ask you to respond with your perspective on the topic.

Before you begin to write, you should organize your thoughts and plan out your response. Make sure to fully develop your points,
but save some time to read over your response and make any necessary revisions.

Your response will be evaluated on your ability to express your ideas clearly, to appropriately support your reasoning, and
to apply the standards of written English.

The following appeared as part of a newspaper editorial.

“As public concern over the speed at which many teenagers drive has increased, local authorities have become more vigilant
in their efforts to arrest drivers who exceed the posted speeds within the city limits. Many young people have consequently
begun to vandalize speed limit and other traffic signs. Thus, enforcement efforts have ironically resulted in an observed
increase in vandalism.”

Discuss how well-reasoned you find this argument. In your discussion, be sure to analyze the line of reasoning and the use
of evidence in the argument. For example, you might need to consider what questionable assumptions underlie the thinking and
what alternative explanations might exist. Be sure to fully develop your response using information from your own observations,
experiences, or reading.